Abstract: An apparatus and a method may be provided by which a user aboard an aircraft may use a processing device to communicate with another device, which is not located aboard the aircraft, via an air-to-ground network connection. A communication satellite may provide connectivity for the air-to-ground network connection. As the aircraft approaches an end of a satellite coverage area, the air-to-ground network connection may seamlessly transition to a second communication satellite or a second communication medium. Some communication satellites may communicate via a first frequency range and other communication satellites may communicate via a second frequency range. In one mode of operation, the air-to-ground network connection may be via a communication satellite communicating via a first frequency range. A transition to a communication medium communicating via a second frequency range may occur automatically only during the one mode of operation.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method may be provided by which a user aboard an aircraft may use a processing device to communicate with another device, which is not located aboard the aircraft, via an air-to-ground network connection. A communication satellite may provide connectivity for the air-to-ground network connection. As the aircraft approaches an end of a satellite coverage area, the air-to-ground network connection may seamlessly transition to a second communication satellite or a second communication medium. Some communication satellites may communicate via a first frequency range and other communication satellites may communicate via a second frequency range. In one mode of operation, the air-to-ground network connection may be via a communication satellite communicating via a first frequency range. A transition to a communication medium communicating via a second frequency range may occur automatically only during the one mode of operation.

Abstract: A tactical vehicle has a driver position and a command position, and possibly other positions such as a gunner position. The dashboard provides a plurality of displays and warning lights viewable from the driver position to provide information for the driver of a vehicle and arranged to be monitored from the command position. There are also a plurality of displays and communications devices viewable from the command position to provide information for the commander sitting in the passenger seat of such vehicle. There is a vehicle management display, climate control panel and vehicle intercom devices accessible for use from the driver position and also from the command position.

Abstract: A gun turret according to the invention feature a segmented or sectored configuration, which reduces the weight of the individual components of the turret assembly to facilitate mounting of the turret assembly to the roof of the vehicle by a single person. The gun turret features quick-release clamps or latches by means of which the gun turret can be attached to the roof of a vehicle without tools.